Investigating how cannabinoids may increase the risk of testicular cancer.
Official title: Cannabinoids as an environmental risk factor of testicular cancer: Assessment using cell culture models of human and mouse primordial germ cells and by exposure of pregnant mice
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11089391 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into how exposure to cannabis during pregnancy might affect the development of testicular cancer in boys, using lab models to see how substances like THC and CBD could impact the growth of important cells in the testicles.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $208,750 |
| NIH project number | 5R21DA059789-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11089391 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include young men aged 15 to 44, particularly those with a family history of testicular cancer or those concerned about environmental risk factors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not male or who do not fall within the age range of 15 to 44 years may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the potential link between cannabinoid exposure, particularly during pregnancy, and the development of testicular cancer in males. By using cell culture models of human and mouse primordial germ cells, the study aims to understand how cannabinoids like THC and CBD may disrupt normal germ cell development. The researchers will assess the effects of these substances on germ cells and testicular somatic cells to uncover the mechanisms behind any observed cancer risk. This work is crucial for understanding environmental factors that may contribute to testicular cancer.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention strategies for testicular cancer linked to cannabinoid exposure.
How similar studies have gone: Previous epidemiological studies have indicated a significant link between marijuana use and increased testicular cancer risk, suggesting that this research builds on established findings.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shioda, Toshihiro — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Shioda, Toshihiro
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Biobehavioral support to improve life after testicular cancer in young adults
A youth-focused program helps young men who have survived testicular cancer manage emotions, goals, and health changes after treatment to reduce distress and long-term problems.
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Support to reduce long-term emotional, thinking, and work problems after testicular cancer for young adults
This project looks at how a therapy called Goal-focused Emotion-Regulation Therapy (GET) and stress-related biology relate to mental health, thinking, and work life in young adults who are long-term survivors of testicular cancer.
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Recreating early testicular cancer precursors in the lab
They will grow patient-derived germ cells in lab models to recreate the early precursors of adult testicular cancer for young men at risk.
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Helping Young Adults with Testicular Cancer Thrive After Treatment
This project offers support to young adults who have completed testicular cancer treatment, helping them manage lasting challenges and achieve their life goals.
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Creating lab models of testicular cancer precursors using stem cells.
This study is exploring how testicular cancer starts by creating lab models using special cells from patients, which will help researchers learn more about the disease and find better ways to treat it.
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Helping young adult testicular cancer survivors manage their health and emotions
This study is testing a supportive program designed to help young adult testicular cancer survivors feel better both physically and emotionally as they adjust back to everyday life after treatment.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.